Devonshire Homes has recently submitted plans to North Devon Council for the construction of 200 homes and a medical center in Yelland, a location that lies outside of the approved development boundary. The proposal also includes 60 affordable homes and commercial properties. While the decision regarding these plans is expected to be made by planning officers under ‘delegated powers’, the submission has ignited a debate among local residents and officials.
The controversy stems from a previous decision in 2022 when a planning inspector approved the development of a 250-unit waterfront resort on the former Yelland Power Station site, despite its initial rejection by North Devon planners due to concerns over its impact on the landscape and lack of local-needs housing. The inspector deemed the site suitable for development, as it was allocated in the North Devon and Torridge Local Plan.
Devonshire Homes’ new proposal, however, ventures beyond the confines of the existing local plan. The site in question covers 12.7 hectares of grassland and paddocks surrounding Sandbanks Business Park. Vehicle access would be through the existing road leading to the business park, while pedestrian and cyclist access would be provided via the nearby Tarka Trail. The plans emphasize a high-quality, design-led approach with a density of development that aligns with the character of the area.
Despite the inclusion of 60 affordable homes and the potential benefits of a medical center and commercial spaces, concerns have been raised about the strain on local infrastructure, particularly regarding healthcare provisions. Critics argue that the development boundary serves to protect the natural beauty of the Taw estuary and should not be expanded to accommodate further construction.
Next month, the council will receive feedback from a planning inspector concerning the region’s housing supply. This information will impact the council’s ability to contest development applications in the open countryside. In the meantime, discussions continue surrounding the balance between meeting housing demand and preserving the unique environmental character of Yelland and Fremington.
FAQ
What is the proposed development in Yelland?
Devonshire Homes has submitted plans to construct 200 homes, 60 of which are affordable, and a medical center in Yelland. The proposal is located outside of the current development boundary.
What was the previous decision regarding the Yelland Power Station site?
In 2022, a planning inspector approved the development of a 250-unit waterfront resort on the former Yelland Power Station site, despite its initial rejection by North Devon planners.
What concerns have been raised about the new proposal?
Critics argue that the proposed development would put a strain on local infrastructure, particularly healthcare provisions. Some believe that expanding the development boundary would compromise the natural beauty of the Taw estuary.
What is the significance of the upcoming feedback from the planning inspector?
The council will receive feedback regarding the region’s housing supply, which will impact their ability to contest development applications in open countryside areas. This information will be crucial in determining the future course of development in the region.